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Small purple or red dots
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Flat patches that don’t fade when pressed
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Bruise-like marks without injury
Medical terms sometimes used for these spots include purpura or petechiae.
Common Harmless Causes
In many cases, purple spots are not dangerous and may result from everyday factors.
Minor Injuries or Bruising
Even small bumps you may not notice can break tiny blood vessels under the skin.
Aging Skin
As people age, the skin becomes thinner and more fragile, making blood vessels easier to break.
Certain Medications
Some medications can make bruising or spotting more likely, including: